Food drive commences in run up to Christmas

TORQUAY Food Aid is asking the community to get into the spirit of giving for its annual Christmas donations drive.

Torquay Food Aid president Michael Buckley said the community has provided valuable support over the 30 years it has compiled its Christmas hampers for local families, making him hopeful for another year of crucial food and beverage donations.

“We’re looking for anything savoury or Christmas-related, whatever the community can spare really, it’s one of our busiest times of the

“This initiative started as a real need in town back in 1994, where the four local churches identified there were people around town doing things hard and needed help.

“It continues to get bigger and bigger each year and the clients we have are coming through from far and wide.”

The community can make donations at Torquay Food Aid’s drop-off locations at either Torquay IGA, North Torquay Woolworths or at Torquay Food Aid’s base of operations on 2 Pimelea Drive on Wednesday afternoons.

This year’s Giving Day will be held on Wednesday, December 18 where Mr Buckley and his team will provide residents with Christmas hampers to be had during celebrations.

Mr Buckley said the day is a major highlight throughout the year, seeing first-hand the impact the initiative has on local families and individuals.

Torquay Food Aid already has 90 families on its books for donations with that number expected to rise for individuals in-need.

“Over the years, some of the clients have left us with tears in their eyes because they get more than they expected,”

“Last year we were able to give so much we had to force people to take extra stuff just so it wouldn’t spoil, so hopefully we can have something similar happen again this year.”

Torquay Food Aid can also assist with produce pick-ups by contacting [email protected]